Key facts
VAT reliefGOV.UK says energy-saving materials relief applies to residential accommodation and buildings used solely for relevant charitable purposes until 31 March 2027.
Grant realityThere is no universal charity solar grant. Look for local authority, community energy, trust, foundation and National Lottery-style routes.
Building useVAT and grant eligibility depend on how the building is used, who owns it and whether commercial activity is present.
ExportSEG can support eligible exported electricity where the system and metering qualify.
Quote evidenceCharity registration, building ownership/lease, usage pattern, roof evidence and trustee approval all matter.
Charity funding routes to check first
| Route | Who it fits | Evidence needed |
|---|---|---|
| Charitable-building VAT relief | Relevant charitable buildings, including some community facilities. | Building use, charity status and installer VAT treatment. |
| Local and community grants | Village halls, community centres, faith buildings and local charities. | Community benefit, carbon savings, match funding, quotes. |
| SEG export tariff | Buildings exporting surplus electricity. | Eligible generation, meter readings and SEG supplier contract. |
| PPA or community energy | Sites with limited capex but strong community support. | Long-term agreement, roof lease, governance and savings split. |
Trustee-ready quote pack
- Show the current electricity spend, expected self-use, export assumption and maintenance responsibility.
- Confirm who owns the roof and who can authorise a 20+ year equipment life.
- Separate VAT, grant funding, donor funding and SEG in the financial model.
- Include insurance, fire, roof condition, access, safeguarding and public-use constraints.
Sources checked
- GOV.UK - Find government grants
- GOV.UK - business green funding
- Ofgem - Smart Export Guarantee
- GOV.UK - VAT Notice 708/6
- HMRC - solar panels capital allowances
- GOV.UK - full expensing and first-year allowances
- GOV.UK - green business rates measures
- GOV.UK - Rural England Prosperity Fund example
- Salix - Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme
- GOV.UK - Public Sector Low Carbon Skills Fund
- Planning Data - non-domestic solar permitted development
Great British Energy is an independent guide and is not affiliated with the government-owned Great British Energy at gbe.gov.uk. Funding rules change; verify against official sources before committing spend.